Islamic Months Second month of the Islamic calendar Meaning: This word means "whistling of the wind". When this name was assigned to this month, it was probably a windy time of the year. As mentioned earlier, most of the months were named according to weather conditions at the time. However, since they are based on the moon, the months shift about 11 days every year. So, the seasons do not necessarily correspond to the name of the month anymore. Misconception: This time of the year was considered to be cursed as many catastrophes and calamities took place. However this belief has been proven to be false and totally without foundation (absurd). This can also be confirmed by the following hadeeth. Hadhrat Jaabir (R.A.) has said that, "I have heard the Prophet saying, the descending of illness and evil superstition befalling in the month of Safar is untrue." (Muslim) Events: 1. The Battle of Abwaa took place on 12th of Safar in the year 2 A.H. 2. The Battle of Khaibar took place in the year 7 A.H. 3.

Hadhrat Ali (R A ) married Prophet daughter Hadhrat Fatima (R.A.) in the latter days of Safar 2 A.H. 4. Khubaib Ibn Adey (R.A.) was martyred in Safar in the year 4 A.H. in Makkah. 5. Zaid Ibn Dathina (RA) was martyred in this month in the year 4 A.H. in Makkah. Rabi-Al-Awwal Third month of the Islamic calendar Meaning: First month of spring. It seems it was spring time when the name was given. Events: 1. The Holy Prophet was born in this month as mercy for all and departed from this world 63 years later. migrated from Makkah to Madinah Munawwarah. 3. Battle of Buwaat took place in the year 2 A.H. 4. Battle of Saf'vaan took place in the year 2 A.H. 5. Abu Bakr's(R. A) daughter, Asma (R.A.) was born 6 years before Prophecy. 6. Ruqayyah (R.

A.) the daughter of the beloved Prophet was born 7 years before Prophecy. 7. Abu Bakr (RA.) was appointed Caliph. 8. Hadhrat Umme Kuithum was married in this month to the third Caliph; Uthman (R.A.) in 3 A.H. 9. Wife of the Holy Prophet Zainab (RA.) passed away in the year 4 A.H. 10. Ibrahim (RA.) the son of Maaria Qibtiya & of the Holy Prophet passed away in the year 10 A.H. Fifth month of the Islamic Calendar. Meaning: The first month of summer. "Jumada" means dry. Events: 1. The Battle "Moota" took place in 8 A.H. A war against infidels in which th Holy Prophet did not participate. Th battle is named after a famous city in Syria (Moota). Hadrat Zaid Ibn Haritha (R.A) was the first appointed General by the Holy Prophet 2.

In the same Battle Hadrat Khalid ibn Walid (fourth general of the Battle of Moota) was proclaimed by the Holy Prophet as being "one of the swords of Allah". 3. The Holy Prophet married his first beloved wife; Hadrat Khadijah (R.A) 15 years prior to Prophecy. 4. Deaths: Rajab Seventh month of the Islamic Calendar. Meaning: From Rajaba "to respect". Another one of the sacred months in which fighting was forbidden prior to Islam. This was one of the most respected months for the Arabs. It is also called Rajab al Fard. Fard means alone; because the other three sacred months come one after another, except this month. It comes alone not like the other 3 consecutive sacred months. Events: 1. The Holy Prophet ascended to Heaven on the 27th of Rajab on either Sunday or Monday (Mi'raaj). 2. Hadhrat Bilal Ibn Haritha (R.A) brought a congregation of four hundred men named Banu Muzeena in the presence of the Holy Prophet . They all embraced Islam and became followers of the Holy Prophet in the year 5 A.H 3.

The battle of Tabook took place in the year 9 A.H. This was the last battle in which the Holy Prophet participated. 4. The second Oath of Aqabah took place in Rajab, 12 A.H. 5. Deaths: Shaban Eight month of the Islamic Calendar. Meaning: Consecutively escalating. (Undisturbed increase). Derived from the word "shu'ba", which means branch. The Arabs used to branch out during this month to look for water. Blessings: With the Arrival of the Shaban moon numerous blessings are showered upon us. Just as the initiation of rainfall begins with "pitter patter" such blessings reach us in the same accord and fashion. With the Beginning of Shaban blessings are initiated which progressively escalate so that by mid-Shaban the blessings have reached a considerable amount and finally such blessings reached a considerable amount and finally such blessings reach their peak by the end of Ramadan. For example just as a farmer prepares for a fruitful harvest by harrowing his acreage so that the soil may readily retain water, in contrast our souls are geared by the presence of such blessings in Shaban effectively preparing us for a fruitful and completely advantageous Ramadan.

Our Holy Prophet has said, "Shaban is my month and Ramadan the month of Allah Ta'aalaa." (Daylami) Events: 1. "Laila-tul Baraa'at (Night of forgiveness) the fifteenth night of Shaban. 2. "Qibla", the direction to be adopted within salaah, was reverted back to the "Ka'aba" in Makkah (after being coverted to Baitul Muqaddas in Jerusalem for a short period of time). This took place two years after Hijraah on the 15th of Shaban. 3. Fasting in the blessed month of Ramadan was made compulsory in the year 2 A.H. on the 25th of Shaban. 4. Three years A.H. Hadhrat Hafsa (R.A) was joined in matrimony with the Prophet . 5. In this very month forty two years later Hadhrat Hafsa (R.A) took leave from this world. 6. The birth of the Prophet's grandson Hadhrat Hussain (R.A.) took place, four years on the fifth of Shaban. 7. The battle of Banu Mustaliq took place in Shaban.

8. During the above mentioned battle, the "Aayah of Tayammum" (Purifying with sand before salaah) was revealed, in the year 5 A.H. 9. The daughter of the beloved Prophet Umme Kulthum (R.A.) took leave from this world, in the 9 A.H. Ninth month of the Islamic Calendar. Meaning: Derived from "RAMADHA", literally means "intense heat". The possible reasons for this meaning: 1. When the Islamic months were enforced the month of fasting coincided with the summer months of intense heat. 2. The second reason which has been mentioned is that due to fasting the temperature within the stomach increases, again the element of heat is a factor behind the actual naming of RAMADAN. 3. It has also been said that "RAMADHAA" is one of the names of Allah Ta'aalaa. If that is the case then the month has acquired the name due to the fact that Allah Ta'aalaa burns away accumulated sins and eliminates then from the list of unlawful deeds. Once again the burning sins cannonades "HEAT". However. it should be acknowledged that this reasoning is not wholly reliable.

Blessings: Hadhrat Salmaan (R.A) reports that on the last day of Sha'baan the Messenger of Allah Ta'aalaa addressed then and said, "Oh people, there comes before you now a great month, a most blessed month in which lies a night more greater in virtue than 1,000 months; (LAYLATUL-QADR). It is a month in which each day should be observed by fasting, this has been made obligatory by the Almighty Allah." Events: 1. Hadhrat Hasan (R.A.), Holy Prophet grandson was born on 15th of Ramadan, three years after Hijrah. 2. Qur'an was revealed on the 27th night of Ramadan from the "Lauhe Mahfooz" (on 7th heaven) to 1st heaven. 3. The first Battle in the Islamic History, "BATTLE OF BADR" took place on the 12th of Ramadan in year 2 A.H. 4. Victory of Makkah took place on 18th of Ramadan in the year 8 A.H. 5. Hadhrat Sawdah (R.A) was married in year 10 A.H.

to the Holy Prophet 6. Hadhrat Zainab Bint Khuzaima's (R.A.) marriage took place in the year 3 A.H. to the Holy Prophet . 7. Deaths: i) Hadhrat Ruqayyah (R.A), Holy Prophet daughter, passed away at the young age of 23 in the year 2 A.H when the Prophet was at "Battle of Badr". ii) Hadhrat Khadijah (R.A), wife of the Holy prophet departed from this world on the 11th of Ramadan in the year 10 A.H. iii) Hadrat Fatimah (R.A) took leave from the world on a Tuesday 3rd Ramadan in the year 11 A.H.

(6 months after the death of Holy Prophet she was only 29 years old.) iv) Hadrat Abbas (R.A.) the Holy Prophet uncle passed away on a Friday 12th Ramadan in the year 32 A.H at the age of 88 v) Hadrat Ali (R.A.) the Prophet son-in-law departed from this world on Friday 27th Ramadan, age 57 in the year 40 A.H. vi) Hadhrat Saffiyah (R.A.) took leave from this world in the year 50 A.H., aged 60 years. vii) Hadhrat Aa'ishah (R.A.) was 65 years old when she departed in the year 58 A.H. Zul-Qa'dah Eleventh month of the Islamic Calendar. Meaning: Taken from the word "qa'ada" which means to sit. This is the third sacred month in which fighting was forbidden. The people also used to stop their business activities during this month and sit and prepare for the Hajj (Pilgrimage). This is also a sacred month. Events: 1.

The battle of 'khandaq (trench) or Ahzab' took place in the year 5 A.H. 2. In the year 6 A.H.-Truce of Hudaubiyah. 3. In the year 6 A.H 'Bay'at-e-Rizwaan' (The oath of allegiance named Rizwaan). 4. The return to Makkah for Umrah by Holy Prophet and his Companions in the year 7 A.H. Zul-Hijjah Twelfth and last month of the Islamic Calendar. Meaning: The month of "Hajj" (Pilgrimage). This is the last sacred month in which fighting was forbidden. Blessings: The fifth pillar of Islam "Hajj" is performed in this sacred month. The first ten days of Zul-Hijjah are the most virtuous days in this whole month, Hajj is performed amongst these ten days.

Hadhrat Abu Haraira (R.A) reports from the Holy Prophet : "Amongst all days there are none better to engage in sole worship of Allah than in the ten days of Zul-Hijjah, To observe a fast on any of these days is equivalent to fasting throughout the year, to actively engage in prayer and worship throughout any of these nights holds such rewarding values leveling with "night of power" (Laylatul-Qadr) "Tirmizi" It has been stated in the Holy Qur'an, "By the dawn; By the ten nights (ie. the first ten days of the month of Zul-Hijjah), and by the even and the odd (of all the creations of Allah) and by night when it departs. There is indeed in them (the above oaths) sufficient proofs for men of understanding.

(and that they should avoid all kinds of sins and disbelief)" Hadhrat Abi Qataadah (R.A) reports in a part narration from the Holy Prophet concerning the fast observed on the day of Arafaat: "I have full confidence in Allah for the one who observes a fast on the day of Arafaat that his previous year's sins and the proceeding year's sins are forgiven." (Muslim) What is Ramadan - Beliefnet Beliefnet Sign up for our free newsletters and special offers! Just enter your email below. Inspiration Delivering you the best in inspirational articles, life stories, quotes and more. Bible Reading Receive a Daily Measure of God's Word and guidance straight to your inbox. Angel Wisdom Let angels be your guide with help from this inspiring and thought-provoking newsletter. Entertainment Islam What is Ramadan? Muslims worldwide are currently in the midst of observing Ramadan. But just what, exactly, is Ramadan? Beliefnet’s columnist Reed Hall explains. Muslims worldwide are currently in the midst of observing Ramadan. But just what, exactly, is Ramadan? Ramadan is well known as the famous month-long fast of Islam. But Ramadan is actually also the proper name of a specific month in the Islamic calendar.

Just as September is the name of the ninth month of the Western calendar, so Ramadan is the name of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. And yes, the calendar month of Ramadan is the month during which Muslims fast, from sunrise until sunset, every single day throughout the entire month. This is not considered optional, but is regarded as a compulsory religious duty (it is one of the so-called “Five Pillars of Islam,” each of which is incumbent upon all Muslims to abide by). The month of September always runs 30 days. However, the month of Ramadan, like all months in the Islamic calendar, may run either 29 or 30 days. Islam follows a lunar calendar, according to which each successive new month does not technically begin until the first sighting of the crescent moon, just after sunset, on the last day of the previous month; the new month then runs for 29 or 30 days, depending upon when the next crescent moon is sighted (which in turn marks the beginning of the following month in the calendar).

This introduces a brief variable of uncertainty which makes it impossible to precisely predict, in advance, just exactly when a given month is going to end or begin; it also means that when months begin and end may vary slightly from location to location (from Muslim country to Muslim country). This method of calculating months also means that the Islamic year ends up being 10 or 11 days shorter than a Western calendar year. In contrast to the Gregorian solar calendar followed by the West, with its 12 months of 365 days per year, Islam’s lunar calendar has 12 months of only 354 or 355 days per year. This means that its months are not locked in fixed synch with the seasons of the year, but instead fall 10 or 11 days earlier each year than they did in the previous year; as this creeping drift gradually accumulates year after year, Islamic calendar months slowly cycle their way back through each season, as the calendar years pile up. Unlike the month of September, then, the month of Ramadan does not always fall at the beginning of autumn.

Some years it might, making for a comparatively more pleasant or manageable fasting experience; in other years, however, Ramadan may fall at the peak of summer, with long and hot days making the daily fasting particularly challenging. This is one of those years, with Ramadan currently falling during the Western calendar’s hot summer month of July. In 2011 Ramadan fell in August; in 2012, Ramadan began at sunset on either Friday, July 20, or Saturday, July 21, depending on where you are (as described above, the beginning of any given month can vary, since it depends upon when the crescent moon is first spotted in the sky at any given location, or in any given Muslim country). And it began at sunset because Islam, like Judaism, regards sunset (not sunrise, and not midnight) as marking the “official start” of each new day. What’s so special about the month of Ramadan? Well, it’s regarded by Muslims as the holiest month in the entire Islamic calendar.

It was during the month of Ramadan that Muhammad first began to receive the divine revelations that would then continue for the remaining 23 years of his life, and which would subsequently be compiled by his followers as the holy Quran (or Koran), which Muslims revere as the actual, literal Word of God. Fasting during Ramadan means no eating, no drinking (not even water), and no sexual relations from dawn till dusk. Fasting is not required of children until puberty, and health-based exceptions to the month-long fast are permitted for illness, old age, pregnancy, and similar recognized extenuating circumstances (although in some such cases, missed fast days must be made up later, where possible). In addition to fasting, Ramadan is also a month of increased worship and prayer, reading and recitation of the Quran, religious devotion and spiritual reflection, self-examination and charity to the poor. It is said that the spiritual rewards reaped for such intensive extra efforts during Ramadan are greatly multiplied. The daily fast is broken at sunset with an evening meal known as iftar. Often a community meal, iftar is frequently a chance for social gathering and religious fellowship throughout Ramadan.

So, depending upon where you are in the world (and depending when the first sighting occurred of the new crescent moon which signaled the start of the month), Ramadan began this year on or about July 20; it will run for 29 or 30 days, ending on or around August 18 (again, its actual length will depend upon when the new crescent moon is again sighted, marking the end of the month of Ramadan and the start of the following Islamic calendar month). Ramadan and Islam: Introduction to Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during Muslims fast In the name of GOD, Most Gracious, Most Merciful There is no other god beside GOD Ramadan and Islam: Introduction to Ramadan, the month of fasting for muslims Fasting during the month of Ramadan (also spelled Ramadhan, Ramzan, Ramadhaan), is one of the five pillars of Submission (Islam in Arabic). In the month of Ramadan, submitters (muslims / moslems) fast from dawn to sunset (if able). While fasting (seyam / saum / sawm) during Ramadan, the individual refrains from eating and drinking and practices continence.

It is a time of worship and contemplation and to fulfill God's commands and grow one's soul. A time to strengthen family and community ties, and be on our best behaviour. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar . God revealed the Quran to the prophet Muhammad, on the twenty-seventh night of Ramadan (this night is also referred to as the Layl at-ul Qadr, or the Night of Destiny ), 13 B.H. (before Hijrah). This corresponds to 610 AD. [Quran 2:185] Ramadan is the month during which the Quran was revealed, providing guidance for the people, clear teachings, and the statute book. Those of you who witness this month shall fast therein. [Quran 97:1-5] We revealed it in the Night of Destiny. How awesome is the Night of Destiny! The Night of Destiny is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein, by their Lord's leave, to carry out every command. Peaceful it is until the advent of the dawn.

Ramadan This Year (2016) Ramadan begins on June 6, 2016 and ends on July 4, 2016 God willing for most of USA & Canada / Mexico, South America, Europe, Africa, Middle-East, most of Asia. Ramadan begins on June 5, 2016 and ends on July 4, 2016 God willing for some areas in Western states of USA / Canada (e.g., San Francisco, Vancouver). Ramadan begins on June 6, 2016 and ends on July 5, 2016 God willing for some Eastern parts of Asia (e.g., Phillippines, Japan), Australia, New Zealand. To calculate the Ramadan start date - compare the time of the New Moon with the Sunset in your location. If the new moon is born before sunset, you should fast the next day God willing. Similarly to determine the last day of Ramadan fasting - compare the time of the next New Moon with the sunset in your location. If the new moon is born before sunset, the month of Ramadan is complete on that day.

To find out the start day for your location, and generate a fasting begin/end schedule, please visit the Ramadan Calculation Assistant (courtesy MasjidTucson.org). Phases of the moon data (including the new moon) for 2016 (and beyond) are available at the US Naval Observatory . All times are in UTC (also known as GMT). To convert to your time zone you can use the Time Zone Converter . How do I Calculate Time for Dawn & Sunset to observe the Fast during Ramadan? The time to begin fasts in Ramadan is the same as the beginning of the dawn (fajr) prayer. Similarly, the time we can break our Ramadan fast is the same as that of the sunset (maghreb) prayer. If you do not have a prayer time chart with you, you can calculate the times for your location at the following site: MasjidTucson.org's Fasting & Salat time calculator . Please always verify the times any software gives you by a simple check in the local newspaper for sunrise and sunset (since some software have incorrect data for the local time zone or daylight-savings timings). May you have a blessed Ramadan!

Articles The Month of Allah | Muharram - Muslim Marriage Guide Muslim Marriage Guide » General » The Month of Allah | Muharram The Month of Allah | Muharram Post Rating Bismillah Allah has chosen and given preference to certain days and times that are special and sacred in our religion. As many of you may know by now, the sacred month of Muharram (which begins the new Islamic year) has started today. The Prophet of Allah said, “The division of time has turned to its original form which was current the day Allah created the heavens and earth. The year consists of twelve months of which four are sacred: three consecutive months, Dhu’l-Qa’dah, Dhu’l-Hijjah and Muharram, and Rajab which comes between Jumada and Sha’ban.” [Bukhari and Muslim] Virtues of Muharram It is one of the four sacred months. Allah said, “Verily, the number of months with Allah is twelve months (in a year), so was it ordained by Allah on the Day when He created the heavens and the earth; of them four are Sacred.

That is the right religion, so wrong not yourselves therein” (9:36) It is the best month to fast in after Ramadan. The Messenger said, “The best fasting after Ramadan is the month of Allah Muharram, and the best prayer after the obligatory prayer is prayer at night.” [Muslim] The Messenger said, “The best fasting after Ramadan is the month of Allah, Muharram.” [Muslim] The Prophet called this month “the Month of Allah.” When Allah azza wa jal connects His Name to something, it shows the great status and virtue of the subject. This month contains the day of ‘Aashoora (the tenth of Muharram). Ibn Abbas was asked about fasting on the day of ‘Aashoora and he said, “I do not know of any day on the Messenger of Allah fasted that was better than this day.” [Bukhari and Muslim] This day is known as the day Allah ta’ala saved Musa alayhi salaamand the Children of Isra’eel from Fir’awn. Fasting the Day of ‘Aashoora is an expiation of a year of sins.

The Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam said: “Fasting the day of Arafah I hope Allah will expiate thereby for the year before it and the year after it, and fasting the day of ‘Aashoora I hope Allah will expiate thereby for the year that came before it.” [Muslim] Mourning the Death of Husayn ibn Ali? Al-Hafidh ibn Katheer rahimahullah, known for his work of tafseer, states regarding this act of mourning the death of Husayn ibn Ali radi Allahu anhu, Every Muslim should mourn the killing of al-Husayn (may Allah be pleased with him), for he is one of the leaders of the Muslims, one of the scholars of the Sahaabah, and the son of the daughter of the Messenger of Allah , who was the best of his daughters. He was a devoted worshipper, and a courageous and generous man. But there is nothing good in what the Shi’ah do of expressing distress and grief, most of which may be done in order to show off.

His father was better than him and he was killed, but they do not take his death as an anniversary as they do with the death of al-Husayn . His father was killed on a Friday as he was leaving the mosque after Fajr prayer, on the seventeenth of Ramadan in 40 AH. ‘Uthmaan was better than ‘Ali according to Ahl al-Sunnah wa’l-Jamaa’ah, and he was killed when he was besieged in his house during the days of al-Tashreeq in Dhu’l-Hijjah of 36 AH, with his throat cut from one jugular vein to the other, but the people did not take his death as an anniversary. ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab was better than ‘Ali and ‘Uthmaan, and he was killed as he was standing in the mihraab, praying Fajr and reciting Qur’an, but the people did not take his death as an anniversary. Abu Bakr al-Siddeeq was better than him but the people did not take his death as an anniversary.

The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) is the leader of the sons of Adam in this world and the Hereafter, and Allah took him to Him as the Prophets died before him, but no one took the dates of their deaths as anniversaries on which they do what these ignorant Raafidis do on the day that al-Husayn was killed. … The best that can be said when remembering these and similar calamities is that which ‘Ali ibn al-Husayn narrated from his grandfather the Messenger of Allah , who said: “There is no Muslim who is afflicted by a calamity and when he remembers it, even if it was in the dim and distant past, he says Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raaji’oon (verily to Allah we belong and unto Him is our return), but Allah will give him a reward like that of the day when it befell him.” Narrated by imam Ahmad and Ibn Majaah, end quote from al-Bidaayah wa’l-Nihaayah (8/221). Good Deeds for This Month Fasting.

Muharram lands in winter this year, making it even more easier to fast. The Companions and the righteous predecessors rejoiced in the coming of this season. It is reported that Abu Hurayrah radi Allahu anhu said, Shall I not point you to comfortable proceeds? The people responded, “And what is that O Abu Hurayrah?” He replied, “Fasting in winter.” The Prophet did not fast in succession for one month other than Ramadan, so it is not recommended to fast the whole month. The best days to fast in Muharram is the day of ‘Aashoora and one day before it or one day after it. Imam Shafi’i and imam Ahmad both stated, “It is mustahabb [recommended] to fast both the ninth and the tenth, because the Prophet fasted the tenth and intended to fast the ninth.” Shaykh Al Munajjid gives a tip on his website for us to be sure that we fasted on the correct day: If a Muslim wants to be sure that he has fasted on the right day, he should fast two consecutive days at ‘Aashooraa’.

So he should calculate when ‘Aa’shooraa’ will be if Dhu’l-Hijjah is twenty-nine days and if it is thirty days, and fast these two days. Thus he will be definite that he has fasted ‘Aashooraa’, and in this case he will have fasted either the ninth and tenth, or the tenth and eleventh, both of which are good. If he wants to be sure of fasting Taasoo’ah (the ninth of Muharram) as well, then he should fast the two days we have spoken of above and the day immediately before them as well. Then he will have fasted the ninth, tenth and eleventh, or the eighth, ninth and tenth. In either case he will have fasted the ninth and tenth for sure. So in following this principle, you can fast [updated] October 25th, 26, 27th insha’Allah to be sure you fasted on ‘Aashoora with one day before it or after it.

Fasting the “White Days.” The Prophet said, “Fasting three days of each month is fasting for a lifetime, and ‘the white days’ are the thirteenth, fourteenth and fifteenth.” [an-Nasa’i, Saheeh] Ibn ‘Abbas said, “The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, did not fail to fast the white days either when at home or on a journey.” [an-Nasa’i] These days are the 13th, 14th and 15th of the hijri month which you can calculate according to whichever calendar for Muharram you follow insha’Allah. Increasing in duaa when you are fasting. “The prayer (duaa) of the fasting person will not be refused.” [Al-Bayhaqi, Saheeh] Qiyaamul Layl. The Prophet said in the hadith, “and the best prayer after the obligatory prayer is prayer at night.” [Muslim] In this month we can complete two deeds that the Salaf encouraged in winter.

Al Hasan Al Basri rahimahullah said, “The best season to a believer is the winter, its nights are long for those who wish to pray, and its days are short for those who wish to fast.” Protecting yourself from sins. Allah azza wa jal said about the sacred months, “so wrong not yourselves therein” (9:36) imam Sa’di rahimahullah said in his tafseer regarding this ayah, Allah states that He has made them a measure of time for His slaves, which they may use for worshipping Him, and thank Allah for His blessings, and they serve the interests of His slaves, so beware of wronging yourselves therein. The pronoun may also be understood as referring to the four sacred months, and this forbids them to wrong themselves in those months in particular, as well as it being forbidden to do wrong at all times, because it is more forbidden at this time, but it is worse at this time than at others. Increasing in good deeds in general. Read some chapters from Riyaad as-Saaliheen for ideas . May Allah accept our deeds and allow us to reap the benefits of those days and times He has selected over others.

Source: – brought to you by Pure Matrimony- – The World’s Largest Matrimonial Service For Practising Muslims. Love this article? Learn more by signing up for our updates here: Or register with us to find half of your deen Insha’Allah by going to: Islamic Occasions, Islamic Calendar, Muslim Calendar, Lunar Calendar, Hijri Calendar, Islamic Months, Islamic Events, Islamic date, Islamic Holidays We are not responsible for the contents of external websites "Ads by Google" Islamic Occasions, Islamic Calendar, Muslim Calendar, Lunar Calendar, Hijri Calendar, Islamic Months In the name of Allah, the beneficent the merciful Islamic calendar or Muslim calendar also called the Hijri calendar is the calendar used to date events in many predominantly Muslim countries, and used by Muslims everywhere to determine the proper day on which to celebrate Islamic holy days or other Islamic Occasions. Islamic calendar or Muslim calendar is based on the Glorious Qur'an and its proper observance is a sacred duty for Muslims. Almighty Allah says in the Glorious Qur'an: The number of months in the sight of Allah is twelve (in a year) - so ordained by Him the day He created the heavens and the earth ...

(Glorious Qur'an 9:36) It is He Who made the sun to be a shining glory, and the moon to be a light of beauty, and measured out stages for it, that you might know the number of years and the count of time. Allah did not create this except in truth and righteousness. And He explains His signs in detail, for those who understand. (Glorious Qur'an 10:5) They ask thee (O Muhammad) concerning the New Moons. Say: They are but signs to mark fixed periods of time in (the affairs of) men and for pilgrimage ... (Glorious Qur'an 2:189) Islamic calendar or Muslim calendar is a lunar calendar having twelve lunar months in a year, the beginnings and endings of which are determined by the sighting of the crescent moon (new moon). These lunar months (lunations) are based on the motion of the moon, and because 12 synodic months is only 12 x 29.53=354.36 days. Therefore the Islamic calendar is consistently about eleven days shorter than a tropical year or solar year.

Islamic holy days, although celebrated on fixed dates in their own calendar, usually shift eleven days earlier each successive solar year, such as a year of the Gregorian calendar or Christian calendar. Muslims do not adjust their Islamic year by adding an extra month, as the Jews do to keep their lunar calendar in synch with the seasons. Hence the months of the Muslim Islamic year do not relate to the seasons which are fundamentally related to the solar cycle. This means that important Muslim festivals, which always fall in the same Hijri month, may occur in different seasons. For example, the Hajj and Ramadan can take place in the summer as well as the winter. It is only over a 33-year cycle that lunar months take a complete turn and fall during the same season. As we already know the Islamic calendar or Muslim calendar is derived from the phases of the moon, the Fasting month of Ramadan falls a little earlier each year. The effect of this is to balance out the discrepancy between Fasting in the northern and the southern hemispheres.

It is often thought that in certain parts of the globe the fast will be easier than in others, for the length of the day, as well as its temperature, varies from season to season and from land to land. But Ramadan, creeping forward at a rate of about eleven days in each solar year, ensures that wherever one may be on the planet, the fast will fall sometimes in winter and sometimes in summer. Similarly although in high latitudes the days can be long, there is no heat. A balance is thus obtained, so that Fasting is similarly efficacious all over the world. Although new moons may be calculated quite precisely, the actual visibility (by a human observer's eye) of the crescent is much more difficult to predict. It depends on many factors such as weather, the optical properties of the atmosphere or atmospheric pollution, the altitude of the moon at sunset and its closeness, the quality of the eyesight of the observer, the location of the observer and etc. It is therefore very difficult to give accurate information in advance about when a new month will start. Furthermore, some Muslims depend on a local sighting of the moon, whereas others depend on a sighting by authorities somewhere in the Muslim world.

Both are valid Islamic practices, but they may lead to different starting days for the months. Islamic years are called as Hijra (Hijrah) years, these Hijra (Hijrah) years are counted since the Hijra (Hijrah), which is when the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) migrated from Makkah to Madina (formerly known as Yathrib) approximately July 622 CE. Thus each numbered year is designated either H or AH, the latter being the initials of the Latin Anno Hegirae (in the year of the Hijra). All the events of Islamic history, especially those which took place during the life of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and afterwards are quoted in the Hijri calendar era. Hijra (Hijrah) of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is an important turning point for the Muslim community. After the emigration, the Muslims were able to organize and establish the first real Muslim "community," with social, political, and economic independence. Life in Madina allowed the Muslim community to mature and strengthen, and the people developed an entire society based on Islamic principles.

It is indeed, a unique occasion to ponder that the Islamic Era did not start with the victories of Islamic wars, nor with the birth or death of the prophet (pbuh), nor with the Revelation itself. It starts with Hijra, or the sacrifice for the cause of Truth and for the preservation of the Revelation. It was a divinely inspired selection. Allah wanted to teach man that struggle between Truth and Evil is eternal. The Islamic year reminds Muslims every year not of the pomp and glory of Islam but of its sacrifice and prepares them to do the same. Hence, Muslims do not traditionally "celebrate" the beginning of a new year, but we do acknowledge the passing of time, and take time to reflect on our own mortality. The Islamic year begins on the first day of Muharram with the remembrance of great sacrifice of Imam Hussain (pbuh), the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) on the land of Karbala for the sake of Truth.

The Islamic (Hijri) year consists of twelve (purely lunar) months: Islamic Holy Days – The Fast of the Month of Ramadan and the Two Eids | Ingrid Mattson Islamic Holy Days – The Fast of the Month of Ramadan and the Two Eids © 2017 Ingrid Mattson, and all other copyright holders. Originally published at this link . April 2, 2013 Download the article here (PDF) RAMADAN is the name of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, which is a twelve-month lunar calendar. The lunar year is approximately 11 days shorter than the solar calendar. This means that Islamic holy days and holidays, which are calculated according to the lunar calendar. will rotate around the solar calendar. In the 2012 academic year, Ramadan will begin around Saturday, July 21. The beginning of any month is marked by the first appearance of the crescent moon after the new moon (when the moon cannot be seen). Although the rise of the crescent moon can be determined scientifically, many Muslims still like to watch the horizon and sight the moon visually.

Those who rely on a visual sighting of the moon may begin Ramadan a day after the others if the sky is cloudy. This is why Muslims cannot know ahead of time the exact date for their religious holidays. Nevertheless, to recognize and accommodate Muslim students, school administrators should place projected dates for Islamic holidays on the general school calendar. FASTING in the month of Ramadan is a ritual obligation for all Muslims. It is one of the “five pillars” of Islam in addition to belief in God and his prophets, ritual prayer, payment of charity tax and pilgrimage to Mecca. All Muslims must fast from the first light of dawn (about one and a half hours before sunrise) until sunset during each day of the month of Ramadan. Fasting means a total abstention from food, drink (including water) and sexual relations. A TYPICAL DAY IN RAMADAN begins with the family waking before dawn to share a meal and pray the first prayer of the day. Once dawn arrives (signaled by the “call to prayer” from the minaret in Muslim countries) all eating and drinking stops. Some people will go back to sleep after the prayer, others will stay awake and recite the Quran, the holy book of Islam.

During the day Muslims work or go to school as they do every day. Two of the five daily prayers Muslims are obliged to perform occur in the early and late afternoon. A student or worker may therefore try to find a quiet place to say these prayers, which take only a few minutes. This is true throughout the year, not just in Ramadan. At sunset, the family gathers to break the fast, traditionally with water and dates. Sometimes Muslim students find themselves in the middle of a class at the time they are to break the fast, and other Muslims may be still working, so they will nibble on a date or sip some water. It is important to break the fast on time every day to express appreciation to God for making it permissible to eat and drink once more. After the performance of the fourth prayer of the day, the family usually sits down to share a full meal. Once it is dark, it is time for the fifth prayer of the day. In Ramadan, many Muslims follow this prayer with extra congregational prayers in the mosque every night. Some people will stay up late into the night praying and reading the Quran. MUSLIMS ARE NOT REQUIRED TO FAST IF THEY ARE ILL or physically weakened (including during menstruation for women) or traveling.

They must make up the days missed fasting later in the year if it is possible. Fasting is a religious obligation for all Muslims who have reached puberty. Pre-pubescent children are not required to fast but they are encouraged to try to not eat or drink for part of the day. It is natural for Muslim children, like all children, to want to imitate adult behavior and try to fast the whole day if possible. Many children will fast during school but eat when they arrive home. It is important that school administrators respect the religious rights of these children and provide a place other than the cafeteria for them to stay during lunchtime. RAMADAN IS A BLESSED TIME for Muslims. To those outside the community, it may appear to be a time of hardship and deprivation, but that is not the experience of Muslims. Fasting is aimed to increase our awareness of the presence of God, to remind us to be grateful for His blessings and to create empathy for the poor and hungry. Ramadan is a time of generosity. Just as we deny ourselves, we should increase our giving to others, by inviting people to share our fast-breaking meals, and by donations to the poor.

Just as we control our physical appetites, we also must control our negative emotions and actions. Angry words, gossip and criticism can all invalidate one’s fast. Ramadan therefore teaches patience, kindness and self-restraint. EID AL-FITR is the name of the feast of the breaking of the fast at the end of Ramadan. No Muslim can celebrate Eid until he or she has paid some charity—at least enough to cover a day’s food for a needy person. Then on the morning after the last day of Ramadan, everyone joins together for a short congregational prayer, preferably in an outdoor location. The next few days are spent visiting friends and family, giving gifts and special treats to children and thanking God for His blessings. EID AL-ADHA-the Feast of the Sacrifice celebrates the end of the Hajj (Pilgrimage) to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. All Muslims are required to make this pilgrimage once in a lifetime if physically and financially able. Muslims who do not make the pilgrimage in any given year celebrate the feast in their lands. Many families sacrifice a sheep or other animal on this holiday and divide the meat among the poor, family and neighbors. *IN SEPTEMBER 2001, THE U.S.

POST OFFICE RELEASED A STAMP IN HONOR OF THE EID HOLIDAYS. THIS CAN SERVE AS AN EXCELLENT TEACHING TOOL. Web sites to check dates: ;   Message for Muslims: 5. Ramadan: The Fasting Month Message for Muslims 5. Ramadan: The Fasting Month The Quran states that “Ramadhan is the (month) in which was sent down the Quran, as a guide to mankind, also clear (signs) for guidance and judgement. So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting ….” (Al-Baqarrah 2:184 ff) Ramadan is the name of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, it is derived from the root ramz, ‘to burn.’ The month is said to have been so called, either, because (before the change of the Arabic calendar) it used to occur in the hot season, or because the month’s fast is supposed to burn away the sins of men. Ramadan is the only month of the year mentioned in the Quran.

Traditional sayings of Muhammad concerning Ramadan Muhammad extolled the virtues of this month and said that during Ramadan: “the gates of the heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained.” (Bukhari Volume 3 Book 31 Number 123) Those who keep the fast “will be pardoned all their past venial sins”(Mishkat-al-Masabih book 7, chapter 1, part 1). “Whoever prayed at night in it (the month of Ramadan) out of sincere faith and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Bukhari Volume 3 Book 32 Number 226) “There is a gate in Paradise called Ar-Raiyan, and those who observe fasts will enter through it on the Day of Resurrection and none except them will enter through it. It will be said, ‘Where are those who used to observe fasts?’ They will get up, and none except them will enter through it.

After their entry the gate will be closed and nobody will enter through it.” (Bukhari Volume 3 Book 31 Number 120) “Fasting is a shield or protection from the fire and from committing sins” ………… The unpleasant smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allah than the smell of musk. There are two pleasures for the fasting person, one at the time of breaking his fast, and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord; then he will be pleased because of his fasting.” (Bukhari Volume 3 Book 31 Number 128) Modern Muslim views as to the benefits of keeping the fast of Ramadan a) Muslims claim that major holidays of other faiths have largely become commercialised events but Ramadan retains its intense spiritual meaning. b) It is seen by Allah alone. c) Through increased devotion, Muslims feel closer to their Creator, and recognize that everything they have in this life is a blessing from Allah.

d) It defeats Satan as he feeds on the passions; therefore to fast is to shut off Satan’s attacks, for as Muhammad said “If the Shaitan did not fly around the hearts of men they would readily think of heaven,” fasting is therefore the gateway to divine service. e) Through fasting, a Muslim experiences hunger and thirst, and sympathizes with those in the world who have little to eat every day. f) Through increased charity (sadaqah), Muslims develop feelings of generosity and good-will toward others. g) Through self-control, a Muslim practices good manners, good speech, and good habits. h) Through changing routines, Muslims have a chance to establish more healthy lifestyle habits, particularly with regards to diet and smoking. i) Through family and community gatherings, Muslims strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, in their own home. The Legal Regulations Muslims are required to abstain from eating, drinking and sexual intercourse between sunrise and sunset. All three activities are permitted at night-time “until the moment when you can distinguish the white thread from the black thread” (Al-Baqarrah 2:187).

The general obligation to fast begins on the first day of Ramadan after evidence has been given of the appearance of the new moon. The beginning of Ramadan has to be announced to the people in a way settled by local custom. The law permits relaxations from fasting for those who have reached a certain age (men aged 40, women, not exactly defined), the sick, pregnant or nursing women (if they fear it would be dangerous for them to fast), certain categories of travellers, those who have to perform heavy manual labour (they should formulate the intention (niya) to fast in the night but may break the fast if necessary), and young children who have not reached the age of puberty. Lailat al-Qadr (The Night of Power/Decree) In the later part of the month of Ramadan we reach the Night of Power/Decree (Lailat al Qadr). On this night the Quran was said to have been brought down to the lowest heaven after which it was revealed to Muhammad in portions by Gabriel as the occasion required. The Quran dedicates Sura 97 to this occasion: “We have indeed revealed this (message) in the Night of Power ….

The Night of Power is better than a thousand months (83 years 4 months).” On this night the angels are said to be free from every commission and so full blessing falls upon the believers until ‘the rise of the morn.’ The lailat al-Qadr may also be referred to in sura Ad-Dukhan “A-Mim. By the book that makes things clear; We sent it down during a blessed night” (Ad Dukhan 44:1-3) As for identifying the actual ‘Night of Power’ some difficulties occur for it is said to be either on the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th, many Islamic doctors prefer the 27th. The pious therefore use all the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan for good works for at least one of them will be Lailat al Qadr and blessing will result in observing that night. On this night the Muslim is expected, in their mother tongue to perform additional prayers, read the Quran, pray for forgiveness and ask Allah for blessing in one’s deeds.

Other important days for Muslims in the month of Ramadan 6th- – Birthday of the martyr Husain 10th – The day of the death of Khadijah 17th – The day of the Battle of Badr 19th – The day of the occupation of Mecca 21st – The day of Ali’s death 22nd – The day of the birthday of Ali The origin of the Fast of Ramadan in Islam Muslims trace the origin of the Ramadan fast to the ancient Arab fast of ‘Ashura observed on the tenth day of Muharram. It is related that Muhammad observed it, and said it was a day respected by Jews and Christians (Mishkat 7 chapter 7.1) The tendency of tradition is to trace all Islamic customs back to the ancient Arabs or particularly to Abraham.

A hadith states – “Narrated ‘Aisha (The tribe of) Qurraish used to fast on the day of Ashura’ in the Pre-lslamic period, and then Allah’s Apostle ordered (Muslims) to fast on it till the fasting in the month of Ramadan was prescribed; whereupon the Prophet said, ‘He who wants to fast (on ‘Ashura’) may fast, and he who does not want to fast may not fast.’” (Bukhari Volume 3, Book 31, Number 117) It is possible that the first nine days of Muharram did possess a certain holiness among the ancient Arabs. ‘Ashura is now the name given for a voluntary fast which is observed on the 10th of Muharram. It is however, likely that when Muhammad came to Medina he adopted from the Jews, amongst other days, the ’Ashura. The name is Hebraic and the Jewish custom was to observe the fast on this day from sunset to sunset, and not as in other fasts during the day. When Muhammad’s relationship with the Jews became strained, Ramadan was chosen as the fast month.

Some have suggested that Muhammad got the idea of this long fasting period from the observance of Lent in the Eastern Church for it was exceedingly strict, both in regard to the nights as well as the days of that season of abstinence. Muhammad then relaxed the rules regarding the night so that he could truthfully say: “God would make the fast an ease and not a difficulty.”

Question: What name is given to the ninth month of the Muslim year?
Answer: RAMADAN